Ezra 4:17-23 - Artaxerxes' Reply
17 The message the king sent to Rehum the chancellor, and to Shimshai the scribe, and to the rest of their companions who dwell in Samaria, and to the rest Beyond the River, Peace! And now, 18 the letter which you sent to us has been plainly read before me. 19 And I commanded, and search has been made, and it is found that this city has lifted up itself against kings in the past, and rebellion and revolt have been made in it. 20 There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem, who have ruled over all Beyond the River. And toll, taxes, and custom was paid to them. 21 Now make a decree to cause these men to cease, and that this city be not built until the decree shall be given from me. 22 And take heed that you do not fail to do this. Why should damage grow to the hurt of the kings?
23 And when the copy of King Artaxerxes' letter was read before Rehum, and Shimshai the scribe, and their companions, they hurried to Jerusalem to the Jews, and made them stop by force and power.